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GCC Runtime Library Exception for GPLv3

New Exception Allows GCC to Move Fully to GPLv3

January 27, 2009

Today, SFLC, along with its client the Free Software Foundation (FSF) and the GCC Steering Committee, announce the release of a new GCC Runtime Library Exception. This license exception will allow the GCC codebase to be upgraded to GPLv3, and enable the development of a plugin framework for GCC.

This exception allows the various GCC libraries, which were licensed under GPLv2 and the GPLv2-based-exception, to now be licensed under GPLv3 with this new exception. In addition, the new exception has been carefully designed to address potential software freedom issues related to GCC plugins. With this new exception, GCC can add a plugin architecture while still ensuring the future freedom of the GCC codebase.